MADI BLADE

MADI BLADE

The MADI BLADE-3 can be used to interface your existing MADI gear to the WheatNet-IP Intelligent Network. And, like all BLADEs, it has built-in features like two virtual mixers that make it possible to do much more.

The MADI BLADE-3 is a high-density multichannel I/O BLADE for converting a 64-channel MADI input to data streams on the WheatNet-IP Intelligent Network, and converting data streams to 64-channel MADI outputs. These MADI inputs and outputs then become fully integrated audio sources and destinations on the network and can be routed in any way you may desire.

As a bridge to the WheatNet-IP audio network, this 1RU box interfaces to intercom systems, TDM routers, ProTools systems and DAWS that are MADI-capable. It provides 64 bidirectional channels (AES 10) between the WheatNet-IP audio network and another device over one coaxial cable.

Like all BLADE-3s, the MADI BLADE-3 has its own CPU and operating system, is AES67 compatible, and has two built-in 8x2 stereo mixers. It comes with 12 universal logic (GPIO) ports for interfacing various external switches, indicators and devices for control purposes – as well as 128 software logic ports for routing and controlling devices anywhere on the network.

WheatNet-IP brings added convenience and simplicity to the configuration of a PC- based automation system such as RCS Zetta. Where once it was necessary to employ a specialized sound card, discrete analog or digital audio wiring, a logic interface, and control cabling, with WheatNet-IP’s PC Driver, we can accomplish all of this over a single Ethernet cable. The driver effectively acts as a WheatNet-IP BLADE, and lets the PC enjoy full access to all aspects of the WheatNet-IP intelligent network. The driver is available in versions that offer one, four, eight, twelve, and twenty-four stereo input and output channels. For situations where discrete outputs from Zetta players are desired, we recommend at least the four-channel version of the driver.

This article by Tony Abfalter, reprinted from the July 1, 2015 issue of Radio World, describes how Leighton Broadcasting discovered that the days of running a large amount of wire through a facility are gone